Advice & Technical Support.

Why Storm Damage Isn’t Always Covered by Insurance — What Assessors Look For
 

By Miya Paint & Renovations

 

Severe storms, heavy rain, hail and strong winds are becoming more frequent across South Africa. When roofs leak or ceilings collapse, most property owners assume insurance will cover the damage. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.

 

Many storm damage claims are partially paid, delayed, or rejected outright — often because insurance assessors identify issues related to maintenance, negligence, or pre-existing defects.

 

Understanding what insurance assessors look for can help you protect your property, reduce claim disputes, and avoid costly out-of-pocket repairs. In this article, Miya Connection explains why storm damage is not always covered and how professional waterproofing and maintenance can safeguard your claim.

 

1. Storm Damage vs Maintenance Damage — The Key Difference

 

Insurance policies generally cover sudden and accidental damage caused by unforeseen events, such as:

 

  • Extreme storms

  • Heavy rainfall

  • Strong winds

  • Hail

  • Fallen trees

 

However, insurers do not cover damage resulting from:

 

  • Poor maintenance
  • Wear and tear
  • Old or failed waterproofing
  • Rusted or cracked roofing sheets
  • Blocked gutters and downpipes
  • Pre-existing leaks

 

If assessors determine that the damage occurred due to long-term neglect rather than a single storm event, your claim may be rejected.

 

2. What Insurance Assessors Look for During Storm Damage Inspections

 

When an insurance assessor arrives, they don’t just look at the visible damage. They conduct a detailed investigation to determine cause, condition, and responsibility.

 

Assessors Will Check:

 

✓ Roof Age and Condition

 

Old roofs with brittle tiles, corroded sheets, or cracked waterproofing membranes raise red flags. Assessors may argue the roof failed due to age, not the storm.

 

✓ Signs of Long-Term Water Damage

 

Stains, mould, peeling paint, and damp odours indicate that water penetration existed before the storm.

 

✓ Waterproofing Integrity

 

Failed torch-on membranes, cracked coatings, and loose flashings are common reasons for claim rejection.

 

✓ Drainage Systems

 

Blocked gutters or downpipes suggest negligence. Water overflow caused by blocked drainage is usually not covered.

 

✓ Previous Repairs

 

Poor DIY repairs or patch jobs signal inadequate maintenance.

 

✓ Maintenance Records

 

Assessors may request proof of regular maintenance, inspections, or waterproofing work.

 

3. Why Roof Leaks Are the Most Commonly Rejected Claims

 

Roof leaks are among the most disputed insurance claims. This is because insurers view roofing as a maintenance responsibility, not a storm-related risk — unless proven otherwise.

 

Claims are often rejected when:

 

  • Waterproofing has exceeded its lifespan
  • Flashings were not properly installed
  • Expansion joints were not maintained
  • Roof penetrations were poorly sealed
  • Ponding water existed before the storm

 

Without evidence of regular maintenance, insurers assume the leak was inevitable.

 

4. How Blocked Gutters Can Void Your Insurance Claim

 

Blocked gutters are a major issue during storms. When water cannot drain properly, it backs up under roof coverings and enters the building.

 

Insurance companies typically state:

 

“Damage resulting from blocked drainage systems is considered preventable and therefore excluded.”

 

Regular gutter cleaning is considered basic property maintenance.

 

5. What Documentation Helps Support a Storm Damage Claim

 

To improve your chances of a successful claim, you should have:

 

  • Roof inspection reports
  • Waterproofing warranties
  • Maintenance invoices
  • Before-and-after photos
  • Contractor assessment reports
  • Emergency repair records

 

A professional waterproofing company can provide these documents — which are critical during insurance disputes.

 

6. How Professional Waterproofing Protects Your Insurance Cover

 

Proper waterproofing does more than prevent leaks — it protects your insurance eligibility.

 

At Miya Connection, our services help ensure:

 

✔ Your roof meets insurance standards
✔ Waterproofing systems are within lifespan
✔ Drainage systems function correctly
✔ Flashings and joints are professionally sealed
✔ Inspection reports are documented
✔ Repairs are done to industry standards

 

This shifts responsibility away from “poor maintenance” and strengthens your claim.

 

7. Common Insurance Exclusions Property Owners Overlook

 

Many policies exclude damage caused by:

 

  • Gradual deterioration
  • Structural movement cracks
  • Old waterproof membranes
  • Rust and corrosion
  • Mould growth
  • Inadequate maintenance

 

Understanding these exclusions allows you to proactively address risks before storm season.

 

8. What to Do Immediately After Storm Damage

 

If your property is affected by a storm:

 

  1. Photograph all damage immediately
  2. Prevent further damage (temporary sealing)
  3. Do not delay reporting the claim
  4. Call a professional contractor
  5. Request a written damage assessment

 

Quick action shows responsibility and helps your claim.

 

9. Why Insurance Companies Value Professional Contractors

 

Insurance companies prefer contractors who:

 

  • Are registered and experienced
  • Follow safety and building standards
  • Provide clear reports
  • Use approved materials
  • Offer warranties

 

Miya Connection works closely with property owners and insurers to provide professional documentation and repair solutions.

 

Conclusion: Insurance Covers Storms — Not Neglect
 

Storms may be unavoidable, but claim rejection is not. Insurance assessors focus on whether the damage was sudden or preventable.

 

Without proper waterproofing, roof maintenance, and documentation, claims are often denied.

 

By investing in professional inspections and preventative waterproofing, you protect not only your property — but also your insurance cover.

 

📞 Need a Roof Inspection or Storm Damage Assessment?
 

Miya Connection provides:

 

  • Roof inspections
  • Waterproofing assessments
  • Storm damage repairs
  • Insurance-ready reports
  • Emergency leak response

 

📲 Call / WhatsApp: 0660361296
📧 Email: sales@miyaconnection.co.za 
🌐 Website: www.miyaconnection.co.za

 

 

Protect your property. Protect your insurance claim.